Here’s the deflation breakdown for September 2024 — in one chart

Published On Oct 11, 2024, 1:58 PM

The article discusses the recent deflation trends in the U.S. economy as of September 2024, highlighting a decrease in prices for a variety of goods including household furnishings, appliances, and vehicles. This deflation is primarily attributed to the return of supply and demand dynamics to normal levels post-pandemic. Key areas of deflation noted include household goods (down 2%), appliances (down 3%), and vehicles (1% deflation for new and 5% for used). Prices for energy and food commodities have also shown significant fluctuations. Experts note that while deflation is noticeable for several product categories, it remains rare across the broader economy, with businesses generally reluctant to lower prices significantly.

Stock Forecasts

Due to the ongoing deflation, especially in consumer goods and vehicles, companies producing these items may see pressure on profit margins if demand does not improve; as a consequence, stocks in these sectors may face downward pressure.

The trend of improving supply chain conditions and deflating prices may favor consumer spending, potentially benefiting retail and consumer goods ETFs. However, deflation poses risks to manufacturers, especially in sectors experiencing substantial price drops.

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